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Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Afghan amir, Abd al-Raḥman Khan (circa 1844–1901)

This photograph of the Afghan amir, Abd al-Raḥmān Khān (circa
1844–1901), is from an album of rare historical photographs depicting
people and places associated with the Second Anglo-Afghan War. Abd
al-Raḥmān Khān was known as the “Iron Amir” because of his skill and
forcefulness in suppressing rebellions against his authority. He is
credited with creating a centralized state in the aftermath of the war,
based on a cabinet called the Supreme Council, a general assembly called
the Loya Jirgah, and the army. His achievements included the
introduction of some modern manufacturing, agriculture, and health care.
This portrait shows him as a young man in uniform, clutching the hilt
of his sword.